Skin tags (medically known as acrochordons) are common, small, and generally harmless growths of skin tissue. They appear most often in areas where skin folds or rubs against itself. These soft, flesh-colored bumps often have a small stalk connecting them to the body. While non-cancerous, people frequently seek removal for cosmetic reasons or because the growths become irritated by clothing or jewelry.
Proven Natural Removal Methods
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a common technique, as its mild acidity may help break down the skin tag’s tissue structure. To minimize potential skin irritation, ACV must be diluted with an equal part of water. Soak a small cotton ball or swab in this solution, squeeze out the excess liquid, and place the material directly onto the skin tag.
Secure the ACV-soaked cotton over the growth with a bandage for 15 to 30 minutes, allowing the acid to act upon the tissue. Afterward, thoroughly rinse the area with water to prevent prolonged exposure of the surrounding skin to the vinegar. This procedure should be repeated daily.
Tea tree oil is another approach, known for its drying and antimicrobial properties. Since the oil is highly concentrated, it must be diluted first by mixing one to two drops with a teaspoon of a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil. This dilution prevents a localized skin reaction or chemical burn.
Apply the diluted mixture directly to the skin tag using a clean cotton swab, gently massaging the oil into the growth. Application can be done two to three times daily, sometimes covering the area with a bandage overnight. The goal is to gradually dehydrate the skin tag, causing it to dry out and eventually fall off over several weeks.
Liquid iodine is utilized for its ability to penetrate and dehydrate the skin tag’s cells, causing them to shrink. Before application, carefully place a protective barrier of petroleum jelly on the healthy skin immediately surrounding the growth. This barrier prevents the iodine from irritating the nearby skin.
Dip a cotton bud into the liquid iodine and gently apply it directly to the skin tag. After the iodine dries, the treated area can be covered with a bandage. This process is typically repeated once daily, aiming for continuous cellular dehydration and eventual detachment.
Crucial Safety Precautions and Aftercare
Before attempting any home removal method, strict adherence to sanitation protocols is necessary to minimize infection risk. Hands should be washed thoroughly, and any application tools should be sterilized.
Applying a protective layer like petroleum jelly to the surrounding skin is necessary when using acidic or highly concentrated substances like ACV or iodine. This layer acts as a physical barrier, shielding the healthy epidermis from irritation or chemical burns.
During the removal process, immediately stop the home treatment if you notice excessive pain, severe redness, or swelling. These symptoms may indicate an adverse reaction or the start of an infection.
Once the skin tag detaches, proper wound care promotes healing and reduces scarring. Gently clean the small wound site with mild soap and water twice daily. Avoid harsh irritants such as hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can slow the natural healing process.
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and cover the area with a non-stick bandage to keep the site moist and protected. Allow any scab that forms to fall off naturally. Picking at scabs increases the risk of scarring and delays recovery.
When DIY Is Not Safe
Home removal is not appropriate for all skin growths, and misdiagnosis is a significant risk of do-it-yourself treatments. Do not treat a growth at home if it is changing color, bleeding spontaneously, or rapidly increasing in size. These characteristics can indicate a more serious condition, such as a mole or a potentially cancerous lesion.
Any lesion not clearly identified as a benign skin tag by a medical professional should be evaluated before removal is attempted.
Skin tags located in highly sensitive or complicated areas are unsuitable for at-home procedures. Examples include the eyelids, near the genitals, or within deep skin folds. These areas are more prone to infection, and improper removal can lead to excessive bleeding because skin tags contain blood vessels.
Signs of complications during or after a home attempt include yellow or green pus, increased warmth around the site, or a persistent fever. These symptoms clearly indicate a localized infection that requires professional medical attention.